"Leslie Daigle is a problem solver who thinks for herself," Hart said in the release. "Sacramento is full of legislators who take their orders from party leaders and the results have been disastrous. Leslie isn't afraid to stand up to party leaders and special interests to get things done. She will be a breath of fresh air in the Assembly."

The Assembly District includes Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, Irvine and Laguna Beach. Daigle, a Republican, is trying to unseat Assemblyman Allan Mansoor (R-Costa Mesa). Also in the race is Newport Beach Democrat Bob Rush, a real estate investor.

Earlier in the week, Daigle announced endorsements from several schools officials.

She is supported by trustees Martha Fluor, Judy Franco, Karen Yelsey, Dana Black and Walt Davenport, former trustee Serene Stokes, and Deputy Supt. and Chief Business Official Paul Reed.